7 big home-buying deal breakers

June 24, 2013 |Popular Mechanics

Some homes on the market have problems—big, expensive problems that are beyond the expertise of your typical DIYer. That's why it's essential to have a home inspector give it a thorough once-over before buying. If he or she finds any of these seven signs, run screaming in the other direction.

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A Dangerous Level of Radon

You won't know if radon is present without a test. Radon is an odorless, colorless, radioactive gas that can seep into the house from the ground. Long-term exposure can lead to lung cancer, which causes 21,000 deaths each year in the U.S., according to the Minnesota Department of Health. Radon reduction or mitigation systems can reduce radon levels by channeling it out of the house, but they'll cost you. Cardone says the price tag is about $1000.

Gromicko says installing the system is simpler in an unfinished basement, since installation entails running a pipe through the house, but it's a headache in finished rooms. "Radon is the leading cause of lung cancer for nonsmokers," he says. "Radon also has a stigma, which may affect your ability to sell your home in the future to certain buyers."

Photo: Birdies100/Flickr

4of7

A Dangerous Level of Radon

You won't know if radon is present without a test. Radon is an odorless, colorless, radioactive gas that can seep into the house from the ground. Long-term exposure can lead to lung cancer, which causes 21,000 deaths each year in the U.S., according to the Minnesota Department of Health. Radon reduction or mitigation systems can reduce radon levels by channeling it out of the house, but they'll cost you. Cardone says the price tag is about $1000.

Gromicko says installing the system is simpler in an unfinished basement, since installation entails running a pipe through the house, but it's a headache in finished rooms. "Radon is the leading cause of lung cancer for nonsmokers," he says. "Radon also has a stigma, which may affect your ability to sell your home in the future to certain buyers."